One-Pager — IRA-H Area I Preflight Preparation (NCHF)

One-Pager — IRA-H Area I Preflight Preparation (Lessons 01–03)

To act as PIC under IFR: instrument rating for the category (61.65) and an aircraft equipped/authorized for IFR (91.205(d)).
Recency (61.57(c)): in the preceding 6 calendar months — six approaches + Holding + Intercepting/Tracking ("6 & HIT"). FFS/FTD/ATD allowed.
Lapsed: within 6 mo of expiry, regain by re-doing the tasks (not under IFR until done). Past ~12 mo total → IPC required (61.57(d)).
Log (61.51(g)): location, approach type, conditions, safety pilot. R44 is normally VFR-only — confirm the airframe's IFR authorization.

Use an approved source (FSS / aviationweather.gov / approved provider). Core products: METAR, TAF, GFA, winds aloft, AIRMET/SIGMET/Convective SIGMET, PIREP.
Categories: IFR = ceiling 500–<1,000 &/or vis 1–<3 SM; LIFR = <500 &/or <1 SM.
Hazards: structural icing (R44 not approved for known icing), embedded TS, falling LIFR. Set personal minimums.

Altitudes: respect MEA (clearance + signal full segment), MOCA (signal within 22 NM), MCA. Mind Adirondack terrain.
Fuel (91.167): destination + alternate (if required) + 45 min at normal cruise.
Alternate: 1-2-3 rule decides whether (≥2,000 ft & ≥3 SM, ±1 hr ETA → none). Confirm helicopter alternate-minimum provisions (91.169).

✍️ Your aircraft (N-________) — fill in & confirm with your CFI

IFR approval / installed IFR avionics:

Usable fuel & cruise fuel flow:

R44 POH section(s) used:

Look these up in your R44 POH and confirm with your CFI before flight — leave blank until verified.